2. GETTING AQUATINTEDAim: (1) To provide opportunities to
become acquaintedwith other members of the group.(2) To promote
feedback and self-disclosure amongparticipants regarding initial
perceptions.Time: Approx.35-40 minutes.Materials: (1) 12 blank
sticky labels or strips of masking tape for each participant.(2) A
copy of the Labeling Category List for each participant. (See
below).(3) Pencils or felt-tipped markers.Procedure: The group
leader distributes a copy of the Labeling Category List to each
participant along with blank name tags.Each participant must copy
each category on a separate blank nametag.Participants mill around
and choose a person who best fits each category. Stick label onto
clothing of the person you select and engage in a
one-minuteconversation (20 minutes).The group leader forms groups
of 5-7 members. Each group must discuss their reactions to being
categorized and labeled (or not labeled) by others firstimpressions
(15 minutes).Labeling Category List:Warm IntelligentShy HappyFun
loving FriendlySexy SincereMysterious
3. WORLD TRIPAims:To find out the names of other members in the
groupTo provide low risk activityTo stimulate logical
thoughtDescriptionA game to help group members learn each others
namesApproachThe group could be sitting on the floor. The teacher
enters the group and introduces the game by saying, "None of us
knows any others name. Lets play agame that will help us find them
out. My name is Tom, I am going on a world trip and I am taking
Tomatoes with me. If you want to come with me youhave, to say your
first name and what you want to bring. You have to bring the right
thing. The first letter of our first name must be the first letter
of the thingyou bring.The game proceeds until everyone can come.At
the end of the game the teacher asks each student two
questions."How many names can you remember?""Which are
they?"TimeCould take one sessionBackgroundThis activity would be
best used at the initial meeting of the group.
4. WHOS MISSINGMaterials: Small prizes, such as
sweets.(optional)Aims: Memory training, concentration, building
groups, fun.Procedure: Group is seated, scattered around the room.
One person, A goes out. Thegroup moves around, changing places, and
one more person, B,1eaves by the other door, or hides. A returns
and has 30 seconds to guesswhos missing. If he does he wins (a
small sweet, if you wish to give prizes), if he doesnt B
wins.Variations: Add consequences for the loserCHINESE
WHISPERSMaterials: NoneAims: Positive feedback, good for closing
exerciseProcedure: Members mill around. When you see someone youd
like to communicatewith, send them a message via someone else: e.g.
Tell Joan I said thank you for helping me yesterday. Continue until
messages run out.Variations: Do as graffiti on large paper on
walls. Do with bits of paper beingdelivered. Do at a run, speed up,
slow motion, etc.
5. THE NAME OF THE GAMEMaterials: One ball for every group of
about 15 -16.Aims: Introduction, memorizing namesProcedure: New
group sits in a circle of not more than sixteen. One person is
given a ball. The ball is passed around the circle and each person
whoreceives the ball says their name very clearly (usually just the
first name). When everyone has been named and the ball is back to
thebeginning, the person holding the ball throws it to any person.
That person must say the throwers name. The ball is then thrown
tosomeone else who must say the next throwers name. If a person
cannot remember the name of the person who has thrown the ball to
him,they must ask and repeat the name before proceeding with the
activity. The game continues until everyone can remember the names
ofthe people within their group. Group size is usually about
sixteen.HUMAN TIC-TAC-TOEMaterials: 9 chairs, running spaceAims:
Active participation, warm-up, funProcedure: At one end of the
room, three rows of three chairs each, four feet apart. Teams: Team
1 is Noughts, Team 2 is Crosses; they line upIn corners of the room
facing the chairs. When the leader calls noughts, the first naught
runs to a chair and sits with arms circled abovehead. Runner must
sit before Leader counts to 5 slowly. Leader calls crosses, first
cross runs and sits with arms crossed on chest. Leadercontinues to
call them alternately until one team wins (same rules as paper
Noughts and Crosses). Start over, call losing team first. Keepscore
(optional).
6. TICK TOCKMaterials: Two small different objects, such as a
blue felt pen and a red felt pen.Aims: Breaking the ice,
concentrationProcedure: Leader has pen (or other object), passes it
to his right, saying: This is a tick. Player 1 says: A what? Leader
repeats: A tick. 1 thenpasses it on saying, This is a tick. Player
2 says: A what? to player 1, who says: A what? to the leader. Each
time the What? must passall the way to the leader, and the A tick
must pass all the way back, before the pen is passed. When this has
been practiced a few times,start over, and at the same time, start
another pen to the left, saying: This is a tock etc. Confusion is
encouraged and acceptable. Let thegroup try, as long as desired, to
return both objects to the leader without losing the flow or
concentration.FAMOUS PEOPLEMaterials: Famous names on strips of
card or paper, straight pins. Could be real people (Joan of Arc),
fictional (Superman), etc.Aims: Mixing, starting conversation,
ice-breakingProcedure: As people enter, leader pins a name on each
persons back. Each one must walk around and try to find out who he
is by asking yes-or-no questions of everyone else. When he knows
who he is, he pins the paper on his front and continues to help
others.Variations: Try it non-verbally. Try insisting that everyone
must make statements (e.g. I am alive), and no questions
allowed.
7. MOVE TO THE SPOTAimsIntroductory Movement Awareness
RelaxationMaterialsLarge, empty room or spaceLearning to follow
simple instructions, movement, warm-u for Drama PProcedureLeader
says: Find a place to stand by yourself. Now look at and
concentrate on a fixed spot on the floor, somewhere across the
room. Now, move to thatspot in a straight line pacing yourself so
as not to have to stop, while avoiding bumping into anyone.Leader
continues to give similar instructions, allowing time for
individuals to (A) concentrate on each spot, (B) move at their own
pace, and (C) settle intothe new spot.Instructions for (B) could
include moving to the new spot:backwardsin as few steps as
possiblein as many steps as possibletravelling in circlestravelling
in squaresusing as few jumps as possiblewith hands on knees, toes
etc.moving along floor without using handsusing only two out of
four legsVariationsHave group invent more instructions.
8. MRS OGRADYWho: Small GroupWhere: Inside or outside in roomy
areaAids/Equipment NoneObjectives: To assess social skills, ability
to communicate, willingness toparticipateTo encourage group
bonding, relax with each otherLeaders Hints: Observe who is
enthusiastic, imaginative with suggestionsObserve who seems
confident, shows group spirit, who becomes
competitive.Instructions: 1. The group stands in a circle and tells
the story of Mrs OGrady and accompanies with actions:First person:
"Did you hear what happened to Mrs OGrady?"Second person: " No.
What happened?"First person: "She died."Second person: "How did she
die?"First person: "She died with her hand on her head" (places
hand onhead)2. The second person puts their hand on their head too,
says the samespeech to the third per son and adds another action,
so the person atthe end has all the different actions.Conclusion
This is a silly game intended to relax the group and begin group
bonding.
9. TOILET PAPER GAMEGroup Size 6 - 8 people is mot effective,
but slightly smaller or slightly larger would also work.Materials A
roll of toilet paper per groupWhen and Where On arrival to an OCamp
or State Conference site where the to use group will be placed in a
situation where they may needtoilet paper for the next certain
period of time, but do not have access to go and buy any.Procedure
Sit down with designated group and explain to them that in all the
rush, we were not aware that the site does not supply toilet
paper.However, each group has one role of toilet paper until
tomorrow when we go to the shop. Each group member is to then take
as muchtoilet paper as they feel necessary to last them that amount
of time.Once each member of the group has their toilet paper, the
leader explains that we do actually have toilet paper and that what
eachmember of the group must do is tell the group one thing about
themselves for each piece of paper that they have.MAKING THE
LONGEST CHAINGroup Size 2 teams (or more) of at least 4Materials
NoneWhere and When A fun break inbetween activities with a group
who are familiar with each other.Procedure Tell each group that the
aim of this game is to make the longest chain. The chains must be
made of only the clothing currently beingworn by the people in the
group. The aim is that people have to strip down as far as possible
to make the longest chain.The team with the longest chain of
clothing wins.
10. SCRAMBLED EGGSGroup Size 6 and upMaterials Chairs for
everyone but one personWhere and When A good game to get to know
people or in between sessions when working with a small to middle
sized group. A bonus in someinstances as no close physical contact
is involved.Procedure Seat your group in a circle, but make sure
that there is one less chair then the number of people on the
group. You stand in the middleof the circle to begin the
activity.Explain that you are going to call out a sentence and
anyone to whom the sentence applies must get up and change chairs.
It is notpossible to move to the chair on either side of their
present position. Your aim is to occupy one of the vacant places
before someoneelse, so that you are no longer the person in the
middle.Then the person who has been caught in the middle must think
up a sentence that will cause others to change chairs, so that
he/she canget to a chair first.Examples of sentences that can be
called out - "All those wearing watches." "All those who had
breakfast this morning." "All thosewith blue eyes." When "scrambled
eggs" is called out, everyone must change chairs.
11. BE ITGroup Size Any sizeMaterials NoneTime 5 minutesWhere
and When Use to break the workload, to use up excess energy, as a
getting to know you activity.Procedure 1. Ask the participants to
spread out around the room so that they have plenty of space to
swing their arms about2. Explain that the activity they are about
to do is called "Be It" and is involves a bit of imagination and
letting go of your inhibitions.3. Then explain that you are going
to name a series of objects, and each time they should try to shape
their bodies into the form ofthat object.Variations For a group
that is more comfortable with each other, ask them to make a noise
as well as an action.Suggested Ideas
BananaTreeSnailBulldozerElephantTelephoneVacuum CleanerPaper
WeightFood Vending Machine
12. CAN I COME TO THE PARTY?Who: Small groups (separated into
pairs)Where: Enough room for the group to form a large
circleObjectives: To learn from observationTo communicate
non-verballyTo motivate and energise the groupLeaders Hints:
Observe how participants react to the cuesDo those who dont
understand become frustrated, determined or give up?Instructions:
1. The leaders need to decide the criterion for coming to the
party. This can vary and have any degree of difficulty. You
mayinvite:- Those who are wearing clothing ending with a consonant-
Those who have their feet crossed when they are to be invited-
Those who ask when you have your feet crossed- Those who ask you
addressing you by name2. Sit participants in a circle and explain
that you are going to hold a party to which they may or may not be
able to come. Invitethem to ask if they can come to the party. Use
the criterion agreed upon, start the game.3. You can give hints,
such as No you cant come wearing a bra, but you can come in
suspenders (!)4. When the criterion has been guessed, invite one of
the group to be the party host.Conclusion: This is another activity
involving learning through observation. By exercising these skills,
we become better at learning from thosecues that people give
us.
13. MEMORY GAMEWho: Small teams of people (say 3-5 in
each)Where: A room large enough for each team to be able to sit in
a circle.Aids A blanketA number of objects (eg a book, a spoon, a
phone etc)Pen / Paper / Score SheetObjectives Simple memory
testLeaders Hints NilInstructions Place 10-15 objects under the
blanketEverybody has 5 seconds to look at themThen people
individually write down what they sawNext collectively write down
the objects (within each team)Remove blanket and check that all
items were identifiedIf time remaining replace blanket and ask each
team to draw a map of objects as laid out under than
blanket.Variation If too easy, ask for more details eg title of
book, colour of spoonConclusion Non-threatening team game for new
members
14. THE WORLDWho: Small groups, no real limit on the total
numberWhere: A roomAids Large sheets of paperAn atlas (for the
judges)Pens for each groupScore SheetObjectives To informally test
peoples general knowledge of world geographyLeaders Hints
NilInstructions Draw a map of the world, showing the borders of
each country and the location of the capital, but not the names of
the countries or thecapitalsSee how many countries and capitals
each group can identify in a given time period (say 10
minutes)Award 1 point for each country, 1 point for each capital
(accuracy is up to the judges)Conclusion A good game for breaking a
large group up into small teams. Particularly useful for AIESEC,
since at the end of the exercise you canidentify which of the
countries are AIESEC Member Countries.
15. TEAM HOPSCOTCHWho: Small groupsWhere: Outside on a cement
(or other hard) surfaceAids Chalk, StonesObjectives To have
funLeaders Hints Be careful to explain the rules
carefullyInstructions The whole team must travel up and down the
hopscotch board. Each team must do several laps or several games,
depending on thetime allowed.Each player uses a flat stone; player
tosses the stone into square one, then hops over it as far as
he/she can ie into square 2,3 etc.Player turns and hops back to
square one to retrieve stone, then hops back to square they landed
in and throws stone into next square.Process is repeated until
person has travelled up and back.Each team member takes a turn.If
stone does not land in appropriate square, or player hops into
square containing stone of if player touches the ground with hand
offoot they must start again.Conclusion Good team game, may be used
in mini-olympics.1 2 3456879
16. TRAIN GAMEWho: Large groups (approx 20)Where: Inside or
OutsideAids NilObjectives To get people to mixTo have the person in
the centre of the circle try to catch the trainLeaders Hints
Appoint your most vocal people as stations and
crossingsInstructions Group stands in circle with hands joinedOne
person stands in the middle of the circleThe train moves by a
squeeze of the hand, so if a person feels a squeeze of the hand on
the left side, they must squeeze the hand of theperson on their
right sideAppoint a few people around the circle to be crossings
(these people shout ding-a-ling as the train passes through them)
and stations(these people shout Toot as the train passes through,
and they also have the power to change the direction the train is
travelling)The person in the middle catches the train by pointing
at a person who has received the train on one side but has not
passed it on to theother side of them.Conclusion A good game for
groups of people who know each other well enough to feel
comfortable holding hands, or for groups who arebeginning to be
bonded (eg new directors at a national conference)
17. ANIMAL NOISESWho: The more the merrier (at least 20)Where:
In a large room or outsideAids Animal names on slips of
paperBlindfolds if you have themObjectives To communicate with
others without using normal everyday wordsLeaders Hints
NilInstructions Each person is given a piece of paper with the name
of an animal on it eg cow, horse, goat, owl, elephant, dog, and
turkey. The numberof animals you use is up to you, but you want to
use each animal at least 4 or 5 times.Everyone has to close their
eyes (or be blindfolded) and by making the noise of their animal,
find the other cows, horses etc, keepingtheir eyes closed all the
time.Variations For large groups, just give inform each person of
their animal verbally.Conclusion Sit back and laugh
18. WINK MURDERWho: A group of people (preferably 15 25)Where:
Inside a room big enough for everyone to walk aroundObjectives To
learn from observationInstructions Everyone sits in a circle and
covers their eyes.You choose a murderer (unknown to others) by
tapping them on the headEveryone uncovers their eyes and starts to
walk around so that they frequently pass each other.The murderer
may kill anyone by winking at him or her. If a person receives a
wink he/she must wait for 5 seconds and then fall to theground
(shouting aaagh! on the way down). That person is now dead and
cannot participate in the rest of the game.If a person spots
another person winking at someone, he may accuse that person of
being the murderer, by pointing at the accused &saying, I think
X is the murderer.After the accusation has been made, the accuser
must have someone else back up his or her claim. If not, the
accuser must withdrawfrom the game. The suspect does not have to
comment.A murderer is caught if he/she is accused correctly by tow
people, and a new game starts.If an accuser and a supporter are
both wrong, they must both withdraw from the game.Conclusion A good
game for a group of strangers, or even friends!
19. WHOS CHANGING THE MOVEMENTWho: Groups of people (approx
20)Where: Enough room to sit in a circle, inside or outsideAids
NilObjectives To test peoples powers of observationLeaders Hints
NilInstructions Groups sit in a circle facing inwards, one person
per group leaves the room. The others decide who will be the
leader.The person comes back into the room and stands in the
middle.The leader makes a series of movements eg scratching head,
waving arms, lifting leg up and down, bending forward etc and the
othersin the group have to copy the movements.The person in the
middle, by carefully watching the change of the movements has to
guess whom the leader is.Conclusion Good for strangers or
friends.
20. TEAM BUILDING
21. BOMB SHELTERMaterials: NoneAims: Role-playing, group
decision-making, group interaction.Procedure: Divide in groups of 8
- 10. Each group member adopts a specific role, usually an
occupation, e.g. a doctor, an athlete, a teacher, movie-star,
mother, housewife, etc. (These can be written out and picked from a
hat). Tell groups they are in an air-raid shelter after an atombomb
has fallen, big enough and with enough air and food for only six
people, therefore they must get rid of several members. Eachgroup
member must argue as to why he should be allowed to survive. A
group decision must be reached as to who goes and stays: nosuicides
or murder allowed. Set a time limit for the decision. Later discuss
how the group interacted making the decision, whether eachperson
played an active or passive role, how satisfied each was with his
role, etc.Variations: Instead of an air-raid shelter, have a life
raft or desert island or space ship. Add incidents, accidents,
rituals, funerals, ceremonies.ONE SPECIAL THINGThis exercise is a
good one to use early in the semester because it helps to build a
sense of group rapport through the establishment of an environment
forself-disclosure.Divide the class into pairs. Instruct the
students to carry on a normal conversation for five minutes, each
person telling the other as much as possible abouthimself. Ask the
students to pick those things about themselves that they think are
important to share. After five minutes ask the class to come back
togetheragain as one large group (preferably in a circle). Then ask
each student to introduce his partner by stating his partners name
and the one special thing thatimpressed him as most important about
that person.If you like, you can end the discussion by asking the
group to talk about what it was like to talk to the other person
and what it was like to be talked about inthe group.Every person
needs recognition. It is expressed cogently by the lad who says,
Mother, lets play darts. Ill throw the darts and you say
`Wonderful. "Educator Handbook of Stories, Quotes, and HumorM. Dale
Baughman
22. BODY LIFTAims: Trust, concentration, group
developmentProcedure: Group chooses each member in turn and
elevates them to a horizontalposition above the heads of the group.
The person is held there for a specific period, and then lowered
carefully to the floor. The elevatedperson must relax and close
eyes. It is often a good idea to have the groups raise and lower in
unison. This often avoids confusion andhelps
concentration.Variations: Vary speed and control of lift,- walk,
rock, etc.Have the person involved give instructions to the
group.Combine with Backward fall & catch.SITTING
CIRCLEMaterials: Circle of over 25 peopleAims: Trust, funProcedure:
a) Group stands in a close circle, in queue form, with right
shoulders towards the center of the circle.b) Circle closes so that
everyone is touching the person in front and behind them.c)
Participants hold the waist of the person in front d Everyone bends
their knees until they feel themselves supported on the knee of
theperson behind.e) If successful (rare first time) the whole group
is self supported, each person sitting on the knee of the person
behind.Note: This can only be successful if the circular shape is
maintained throughout and it is helpful if the group leans slightly
towards the center asthey are trying to settle down.Variations
After secure sitting position is achieved1 Everyone leans inwards
slightly and raises left leg2 Try alternate stepping with right and
left feet, (very difficult.)
23. TANGLEMaterials: NoneAims: Group development, trust,
warm-upProcedure: Whole group links hands into a human chain. First
person leads chainthrough itself, over and under arms, between
legs, etc. Extra care must be taken not to break the chain, to move
slowly and to be gentle.Tangle ends when group is too tightly
packed to move. One person then untangles the group, giving them
directions without touchingthem.SPEAKEASYMaterials: One chairAims:
Self-validation, group developmentProcedure: A chair is placed in
front of the group. Each person has a chance to sit on the chair
and talk to the group. They can develop any subjectof their choice.
It is often better to start out with descriptions of themselves -
group leader setting the pace by going first.This is very important
activity which can become a permanent feature of each drama lesson,
especially if a drama lesson is over 60minutes long.Positive
developments can result in group discussion and ways of resolving
problems.Variations: Speak on controversial subjects, give views,
then discuss, argue, do values continuum, etc.
24. CONCENTRATION POINTSMaterials: NoneAims: Improvisation,
movementProcedure: Work in pairs or teams: use mime or short
improvisationsCompare silence with noise, running with slow motion
(really slow,almost imperceptible).running and leaping with slow
motion, exuberance withsorrowold people - young peopletall I people
- short peoplebig (expansive and extrovert) - small (nervous and
introvert)floating - mud wallowingsleek and darting - slow and
ponderousslow witted - quick wittedstiff person - loose personrich
- poorstrong - weakindustrious - lazytaciturn person -
chatterboxEnglishman - Frenchmanpompous person - friendly
personserious person - silly personschool teacher - school
childpoliceman - criminalangel - devilmotorist - pedestrianslow
people - quick peopleVariations: Development into improvisations:
dealing with various situations; people might be involved in
conversation,1etter writing, shopping
25. TRUST WALKWho: Large GroupWhere: Walking
outsideAids/Equipment: BlindfoldsObjectives: To develop group and
individual trustTo communicate without wordsLeaders Hints: Who is
willing to trust the person in front of them? (stepconfidently)Who
communicates with the people behind?Instructions: 1. Everyone lines
up in a single row behind the leader.(Group leaders should be
spaced every couple of students to ensure they remainsafe)2. Each
person puts on a blindfold.3. Each person puts their hands on the
shoulders of the one ahead of them. Explain that when they walk
outside, if they need to step upthe person in front will tap their
right leg, and if they need to step down, the person in front will
tap their left leg. They must do thesame to the people behind them
and pass the message along.4. The leader leads the line outside and
around the grounds.Conclusion This activity can be used after
contemplative reflection (Sunday morning) or towards the end of the
camp, when people are morefamiliar with each other.
26. BODY ENGLISHWho: Small Group (with presentation to the
whole camp)Where: Individual groups then in large area or
hallAids/Equipment NoneObjectives: To assess emotional expression
and adaptabilityTo motivate and energise studentsTo provide a
variety of activity and have the groups working together
spontaneouslyLeaders Hints: Observe who dominates the group, who
comes up with ideas, who stands away or doesnt contributeObserve
who is willing to participate, who keeps everyone involvedObserve
who is shy in front of the main group or is unwilling to be
involvedInstructions: 1. Each group is given a proverb/expression
and ten minutes to prepare.The skit is to be quick and similar to
charades, where the phrase is spelt or acted out. The main group
has to guess theproverb/expression.2. Leaders can give an example
in front of the group before the others begin.Conclusion This
activity can be used in place of the usual "skit". By giving each
group a different expression, there is more variety and tests
thegeneral knowledge of the group.While on exchange, students are
often ask or required to do things which are "silly" cr in front of
others. This activity provides someinitial experience and tests the
willingness of the students to do things that think make them
appear foolish.Suggestions: "A bird in the hand is worth two in the
bush""A rolling stone gathers no moss""Once bitten, twice shy""A
stitch in time save nine""Let sleeping dogs lie""Good things come
in small bundles""Too many cook, spoil the broth""An apple a day
keeps the doctor away"
27. KNOTSGroup Size 7 - 12 (For Larger groups, split up into
smaller groups, or use the variation below)Materials NoneWhen and
Where This is an activity which requires people to make close
physical contact. Not everyone feels comfortable doing this sort of
thing, sokeep this in mind, especially with a group who are
unfamiliar with each other. Use before, during or after a session
of work, to developgroup identity.Procedure Group meets together in
a tight circle with arms outstretched in front and eyes closed.
Each person grasps one hand of someone closeand one hand of someone
further away. Each hand should be linked with only one other hand.
Make sure that no two people areholding both of each others
hands.Now, as a group, attempt to unknot the circle. Hand grips are
allowed to be changed but not broken.Variation For a group larger
than 12: Form a circle and hold hands. Break the circle at one
point and ask one of the end persons to tie the rest ofthe group
into a knot. When the knot is complete, the person at the other end
tries to untangle the knot. Hand grips cannot be changedor
broken.
28. STRAW GAMEWho: Small Groups of 5-7Where: Enough room for
each group to have plenty of room around themAids/Equipment: Lots
of drinking strawsObjectives: To get new participants working as a
teamTo introduce participants to each other in a non-threatening
wayLeaders Hints: Observe who talks the most, who is quiet, who
just does what they are toldInstructions: Workers sit together on
the floor with a pile of straws in the centre. The workers are
instructed to work as a team & use the strawsto make a big
beautiful design on the floor.Conclusion: A simple team building
game ideal for groups of strangers. Variationson this game include
giving them teams each 30 rolled up newspapersand seeing which
group can make the tallest construction.
29. THE MACHINEWho: A single group of 5 20 people.Where: A room
large enough to hold the entire group, or outside (but not with
lots of people standing around watching, as participants may geta
bit embarrassed).Aids: NilObjectives: To use your imaginationTo get
to know each otherLeaders Hint: This game rewards the people who
are the most imaginativeInstructions: Participants are to become
parts of a large imaginary machine. One person acts out a
repetitive motion or sound of a machine part.One by one other arts
are added to the machine until the whole groups is involved. An
example would be an engine with peopleplaying the roles of:
StarterA wheelPistonsMoving Handle etcVariation: Breaking the group
up, one group becomes a machine and the other group has to guess
what sort of a machine it is, then vice-versa.Conclusion: This
exercise requires a fair amount of imagination, but can also be a
lot of fun if the people really get into the acting.
30. SCRAMBLEDWho: Teams of up at least 3 peopleWhere:
IndoorsAids Scrabble TabletsScore sheet penBlu-TackObjectives To
learn to work as a team using non-verbal communicationLeaders Hints
Observe those who assume the role of team leaderInstructions Each
team member chooses one scrabble table. They must not look at the
tablet. They must stick it to their forehead immediately. Noteam
member is allowed to inform another team member of what that
persons letter is.The team must create as many words as possible in
the time given. A judge needs to write down each word as the team
forms it. Thewords must be at least 3 letters, although there may
be more people in each group.The words created must never be said
aloud, since this would allow people to find out their letter too
easily.Award one point for each letter used, with a bonus of 5
points for using all the tablets in the group.Variation 1 Make it
harder by increasing the minimum number of letters per word.2 Give
everyone a letter, allowing him or her to see it. Shout out words
and have people find other letters and line up as the word assoon
as possible. Make it a competition by eliminating people who dont
become part of a word.Conclusion A good fun team game.
31. PASSENGER BALLOONWho: Groups of 5 6Where: Inside or
outsideObjectives To learn to make an argument about the importance
of oneselfTo learn to negotiate with other peopleLeaders Hints Look
for those who try to intimidate othersInstructions Groups sit in a
fairly small circle, which represents the basket of the passenger
balloon. Each person has to pick an occupation forhimself or
herself eg plumber, lawyer, doctor etc. Make sure that people have
chosen their occupation before you explain the scenarioto them.The
balloon is slowly losing altitude and in order for some of the
people to survive, one person has to jump out.Everyone has to put
forward their reasons why they shouldnt have to jump out and why
someone else should. Everyone must agreeon who has to jump within 5
mins or everyone will perishConclusion This game is a bit like
bomb-shelter. It is quite useful since the people dont need to know
each other to be able to play it.
32. BLINDFOLD NAVIGATIONWho: Small teams (say 4-5 people)Aids 2
blindfolds per team (one for walker, one for next person in line),
Chalk, 1 Chair per team, 1 Spoon / box of matches / apple per
teamOther obstacles (eg bins)Objective To win by trusting each
otherInstructions Draw course on the ground (including circles for
pick up / put down points), One team member is blindfoldedNavigate
course with instructions from other team members. Navigate
obstacles and pick up / put down objects (judge to return objectto
pick up point after it is put down)Repeat with other team members
Fastest Team winsCommands Stop, Go Left, RightForward, Back Down,
UpPick up, Put down Yes, NoSit, StandExample CourseConclusion Bit
of trust involved, so good for people who at least have met
beforeChairSit DownPick up ObjectPut Down ObjectObstacles
33. PASSED OVERWho: Groups of 30-40 people.Where: Inside a very
large room or outside, preferably over a carpet or grass
surface.Aids NilObjectives To build peoples trust in each otherTo
work together as a large teamLeaders Hints Spread the strong people
evenly amongst the two groupsInstructions Form lines of about 30-40
peopleLine up in pairs, one pair behind the otherWith the help of
two strong people at the front and back if needed, life a person,
life a person up an pass them along the top of the linelying flat
and supported by the hands of the people underneath.Conclusion A
good trust, you can also increase the number of people you pass
along so that everyone who feels comfortable can have a go.LINKING
UP 1 10Who: Groups of up between 7 12 peopleLeaders Hints Look for
the innovators who can solve this problemInstructions Give each
group member a number from 1 7 (or 10, or 12 etc)Make sure that
no-one else knows what their number is. They then have to line up
in numerical order, but they must close their eyesand not talk.
After an appropriate amount of time, stop the game.Discuss how they
felt about not being able to do it, and see if they can find ways
that may have made it easier eg tapping their numberson each others
back.
34. PLAYFAIR
35. COLOURSGroup Size Any SizeMaterials NoneWhere and When A
good game to play when the groups concentration is fading. It is
quick, gets peoples bodies moving, and you can then lead
intoanother session or carry on where you left off. It is not
advisable to use this activity on groups who are unfamiliar with
each other as itcan be threatening.Procedure The leader calls a
part of the body and a colour that can e found in the room.
Everybody must then rush and place that part of theirbody on that
colour eg noses on red. Everyone must stay in that position until
another colour has been called.NOTE: be careful not to let this
drag on too long or it will become a de-energiserFLYING
CARPETSGroup size: Approx tenMaterials: 1 Blanket for each
groupProcedure: Each group has to stand on their blanket and race
down to the other endof the room. They must stay on their blankets
at all times. The firstgroup to reach the end is the winner.
36. KNIGHT; MOUNT; CAVALIERMaterials Large open spaceWhen and
Where Use to release energy and for lots of fun. Excellent in
playfairs.Procedure Ask the group members to pair off, finding a
partner roughly the same size. Explain that this activity is called
"Knight; Mount;Cavalier". There are three positions that they need
to know.1. Knight: One person kneels on one knee with their partner
sitting on their other knee.2. Mount: One person gets down on their
hands and knees, the other person stands over them.3. Cavalier: One
partner picks up the other person(Demonstrate these
positions)Proceed to call out the different instructions in a
random order, giving people just enough time to get into one
position before you callout the next.NOTE: Dont let this activity
drag on - it should be short or people will get sick of it and drop
out.Variations 1. Make it Competitive: Anyone doing the wrong
position is out.2. Change the roles around so that the person being
picked up is then the one who picks up the partner and so on.
37. SANDWICH GAMEGroup Size 10 and upMaterials NoneWhen and
Where Great for breaks in between sessions and for use in
playfairs. However, close physical contact is involved and may be
intimidating forgroups who are unfamiliar with one
another.Procedure Divide the participants into 5 equal sized
groups. Nominate each group with a part of the sandwich. There must
be 2 groups allocatedbread, 1 group allocated meat, 1 group
allocated tomato and 1 group allocated lettuce. The aim is to then
make the sandwiches. Thereneeds to be a piece of bread on the
bottom (one person lies down), a piece of ham (the next person lies
on top of the first), the lettuceand ham and then finally the last
piece of bread on the top of the pile. On completion there should
be a pile of five people making thesandwich.NOTE: This will work
most effectively if demonstrated first by people who are familiar
with both the leader and the game.STATUES (MAKE THEM
FRIENDLIER)Group Size 7 people (4 boys and 3 girls), plus as many
spectators as you wantMaterials NoneProcedure Take 5 people (3 boys
and 2 girls) outside and keep 2 inside. Bring in a male, and tell
him take the two people inside and "make themfriendlier". After he
has finished, get him to swap places with the male. Bring in the
next girl. Do the same, and swap with the girl. Onthe last male do
the same, but get him to swap with the girl, leaving the two males
in a slightly sexual position.
38. EVOLUTION GAMEGroup Size 10 and upMaterials NoneWhere and
When A good game to begin a session or just generally wake a group
up. Game works most effectively with people who know each other
asthere is an element of honesty involved.Procedure There are four
stages to this game: Egg, Chicken, Bird and Superman. The idea is
that participants evolve through the four phases.Everyone begins
walking around the room banging their fists on their foreheads
chanting "egg egg egg egg egg". Participants pair upand have a game
of paper; scissors; rock. The winner of this game evolves to the
next stage, the looser stays an egg.The game continues and the
participants who evolved walk around like a chicken, flapping their
arms and squarking, the eggs continueto be eggs. The chickens pair
up with chickens and the eggs pair up with eggs to once again play
paper; scissors; rock. Those who winevolve to the next stage where
as those who loose remain where they are. The game continues with
the birds flapping their arms andsupermen soaring around with both
arms in the air.When the game works correctly there should be one
egg, chicken and bird left and the rest of the players are supermen
(or superpeopleto be politically correct)
39. WET PANTSGroup Size 3 volunteers (but any number of people
can watch)Materials 3 funnels3 spoons3 blind folds3 jugs of water1
packet of jaffasWhen and Where Use on a hot day where people have
the opportunity to change their clothes. Also with people who will
not kill the demonstrator.Procedure Get three people up the front.
Put the funnel in the front of their pants and the spoon in their
mouth. Put the jaffa on the spoon, countto three and get them to
drop it in the funnel. Easy. Tell them that they will now be
blindfolded and will have to do it again. Blindfoldthem. Count to
three, but on two pour water into the funnel.MASTER/SLAVEGroup
size: Any sizeMaterials: NoneProcedure: Divide the group into three
groups and form a group of three with one person from each group.
Nominate one person as the leader onthe group. This person becomes
the Master of the other two people in the group who are now Slaves.
The Master then has one minuteto command the slaves to do anything
they say ( within reason of course). Swap the roles to give every
member of the group thechance to be Master
40. STEAMROLLERGroup Size Any SizeMaterials NoneWhere and When
A trust building, physical boundary breaking activity which can be
great fun for a group who are comfortable with physical contact,but
may be awkward with groups who find physical contact more
difficult.Procedure Have the group lie diagonally across the room
on their backs, as close to one another as possible. The person at
one end then proceedsto roll over the top of the others to reach
the other end, where they lie down next to the last person. When
they arrive the next persondoes the same.Variations 1. Group lies
on their backs on the floor, with every person lying in the
opposite direction to the person next to them. Close everyoneup so
that their heads interlock. Everyone then stretches their hands
above their heads. One member of the group lies down along thetop
of the outstretched arms and is passed along the top of the arms to
the other end.NOTE: It is necessary to have someone, preferably the
leader at first, at both ends to start each person off carefully
and catch the headof each person as they finish. Also, start off
with lighter people and gradually build up group confidence in
tackling the heaviermembers.2. Place a 20 cent piece on the first
persons chest. The aim is to pass the 20 cent piece from one person
to another without touching itwith anyones hands or dropping it on
the floor. This variation requires each person to roll only onto
the next person and then back totheir original position. The 20
cent piece should make it to the other end of the chain.NOTE: This
can be made competitive by having two teams going at once. The
winning team has the 20 cent piece arrive at the otherend of the
chain first.
41. HUMAN TUNNEL BALLGroup size: Three or four groups depending
on the size of the group.Materials: NoneProcedure: The groups line
up one behind the other, facing the same direction each person
about an arms length behind each other. They spreadtheir legs apart
and join hands, the right hand going under their legs joining with
the persons left hand behind them. The race beginsthe first person
moving under the tunnel and not breaking the linking hands and the
tunnel moves under itself until all the group hasgone through the
tunnel hands always linked.HUMAN PYRAMIDGroup size: Approx
10Materials: NoneProcedure: Each group must form a human pyramid
and walk the pyramid forward towards the other end of the room. The
first group to reach theend wins. The pyramid classically consists
of 4 people on the bottom level, three on the next, then two and
one person on the top.
42. MUSICAL PARTNERSGroup size: AnyMaterials: Music (that can
be stopped and started)Procedure: The group forms into pairs. The
pairs then kneel facing each other with their hands on each others
shoulders, forming an inner andouter circle. When the music starts
the outside circle stands and begins to move clockwise, the inner
circle at the same time works inan anti clockwise direction. When
the music stops the circles must re-pair and kneel with their hands
upon each others shoulders. Thelast pair to do so is OUT. The game
continues until only one pair remainsSTRUCTURESGroup size: Groups
of between 2 and 8Materials: NoneProcedure: The group is split into
smaller groups of between 2 and 8 people. The leader then gives an
example of a particular structure which thegroups construct by
linking themselves togetherExamples, Tree, Crane, Modern building,
Bridge, Plane / Helicopter, Car / truck/ Bus, Ship, lighthouse
etc
43. HUMAN OBSTACLE RACEGroup size: Approximately six or size to
suit Materials-NoneProcedure: The teams line up and the race
begins. No.1 moves down the line:Patting No.2 on the head;Going
through No.3s legs;Linking arms and spinning twice with
No.4;Sitting on No.5s right knee,Blowing in No.6s ear.No.1 then
joins the line and No.2 goes down the line carrying out the tasks
in the same order, and so on. The list above is only anexample of
tasks for each number. Use your imaginationARM LINKSGroup size: Any
sizeMaterials: NoneProcedure: In pairs sit back to back and link
arms. Then try to stand up. Do thesame in threes, fours, fives etc
until you can do it with the entire group.
44. BALLOON GAMEGroup size: Approx tenMaterials: 1 Balloon per
PersonStringScissorsProcedure: Distribute 1 balloon and a piece of
string to each person.Instruct each person to blow up their balloon
and tie it to their ankle.Once all balloons are in place, tell the
group to burst as many balloons belonging to other people as
possible.Sit down when your balloon has been burst.Activity is best
if no one is wearing shoes.GROUP SLIMEWho: A group of people,
between 10 and 20.Where: Inside a large roomObjectives To
coordinate your progress with othersInstructions Participants lie
in a circle on the floor as far from the centre of the room as
possible with all heads toward the centre.Group closes eyes, and
slowly crawls into the centre, forming a pile, then each person
crosses to the other side of the room.This should take about 5
minutes.Conclusion A fun activity for people who know each other
relatively well.
45. PEELING THE SNAKEWho: Large groups of people (up to 50 in
each group)Where: Inside a large room or outsideInstructions Form
single file lines for each groupEach person faces the back of the
person on his or her right.Bending over, each person places their
right hand back between their legs and reaches their left hand to
grab the right hand of theperson in front of them.The last person
in the line lies down, and the snake unpeels by the rest of the
line slowly walking backwards, still joined, over the topof that
person who has lay down. One by one each person lies down, still
holding hands, with the others passing over the top of them.The
group who are all lying down first win.CHUCKLE BELLYWho: Large
groups of people (say at least 30 in each)Where: Inside a large
room or outside.Objectives To watch a human chain reactionTo test
peoples ability not to laugh (in the variation)Instructions
Instruct each group to lie down so that each persons head is
resting on the stomach of the person before them.Tell the person at
the head of the each line a joke, and they will giggle. When the
person with their head on that persons stomach feelsthem giggle,
they will also giggle and your chain reaction has started.Variation
Have the first person cough, and then each subsequent person cough,
but no-one is allowed to laugh or giggle.
46. PERSONALDEVELOPMENT
47. INSIDE OUTMaterials: NoneAims: Developing imagination,
self-validation, sensory awareness, awareness, body
control.Procedure: Whole group lies on backs, arms on the floor,
legs separate, eyes closed. Leader talks smoothly and steadily and
asks the group tofocus their senses within their bodies. Bodies are
described as containing blood vessels with blood pulsing through;
lungs exchangingoxygen for carbon dioxide (good air for used air);
stomachs digesting food, etc. Group is asked to concentrate on one
particularfunction of the body and the leader asks the group to be
aware (even synthetically) of the existence of the activity,
without feeling forsigns with their hands.Real sensations to
noticeheartbeatpulsebreathingindigestiondigestionperspiration,
etc.Pseudo sensations (to imagine entirely)hair growingnails
growingair in the bloodfood passing to muscles acids attacking the
teeth, etc.Variations 1 Concentration through breathing. Take a
deep breath. Imagine your ribs expanding, the air rushing down your
throat, filling yourlungs, entering your blood and kicking the old
air out. (continue with exhaling.)2 Concentration through
heartbeat. Blood sucked into onechamber - expelled into next
chamber and then back into vein or artery. Concentration upon the
feeling (in rhythm with the beats) ofthis expansion and
contraction.
48. ROAD MAPMaterials Large sheet of paper per person and
pencil or felt tipAims Self-validationProcedure Each person is
asked to make a road map of their life so far. Beginning with birth
and extending to the present. Each map shouldsomehow show the good
places (either scenic or open road, etc.) or the bad places (bumpy
spots, etc.), hospital (road works etc.) Alsobarriers, detours, and
the general direction of their present course.Compare lifes past
course with your imagined future, i.e. goals, etc. How will they be
achieved? What has made the good spots?Variations 1 Extend and
project the map into the future. (conjecture or daydream)2
Construct lists of positive and negative problems and events.
Decide on points systems, i.e., + and -, and evaluate your life.3
Role-play passing detours, etc.
49. TIN SOLDIERWho: Pairs of peopleWhere: Inside a large
room.Aids Obstacles eg chairs and tablesObjectives To learn to
trust your partnerTo feel what it is like to have no power over
your own actionsLeaders Hints NilInstructions In each pair, person
A is a tin soldier, person B is their DirectorTin soldiers can only
move under directions from B. They have no power to think or make
decisions. Tin soldiers walk slowly withstiff legs & arm
joints.Bs job is to guide his/her tin soldier to the other side of
the room, by giving directions to avoid hitting walls, tables,
chairs & other tinsoldiers.Now have Bs wind up their tin
soldiers & begin giving directions.After a few minutes, stop
and reverse roles.Conclusion A good fun game for friends or
strangers. It may have an interesting effect on people who like to
be in control.